Ep. 74: Breaking barriers, transforming lives, and building future champions: How cycling esports drives Masaka’s mission in Uganda
Description
In this episode of The Virtual Velo Podcast, guest co-host award-winning cycling journalist Aaron Borrill and Chris Schwenker sit down with Ross Burrage, co-founder of Uganda’s Masaka Cycling Club Foundation. Ross shares how a grassroots cycling initiative in rural East Africa is transforming lives — breaking generational poverty, challenging gender norms, and unlocking elite-level talent.
We explore the club’s innovative scholarship model, its partnership with the UCI, and how Zwift cycling esports has become a vital tool for talent development in a country with limited infrastructure. From virtual training rooms in Masaka to international World Championship podiums and beyond, this is the powerful story of how a bicycle — and a global cycling community — can change everything.
Visit the Masaka Cycling Club to become a supporter and change the life of a kid through the power of the bicycle.
Don’t miss out on the unique opportunity to delve even deeper into the intriguing topics discussed in this episode.
- The Ugandan Zwift Team [ZwiftInsider, Mar 3, 2021]
- VVN’s Most Impactful People in Cycling Esports For 2025 [Zommunique, Apr 8, 2025]
Join us for a conversational ride as we lend a voice to the digital athlete and bridge the gap between athlete and avatar.
Statements made by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the podcast, its hosts, or its partners. Listeners are encouraged to form their own opinions.
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